THE MAN AND HIS MEMORIAL 255
largely to breed in his workers their devotion to him. They
all knew his soul was in his work; and his example was their
shining light. But his loving encouragement also strengthened
their resolve and beckoned them on. Here is a characteristic
letter to a tried worker:
"I don't want this season to come and go without sending you a few
earnest and hearty words of thanks for the splendid service you have
rendered our work during another year. I am becoming more and
more sensible of your great ability, and more and more thankful that
I have secured so loyal and indefatigable a colleague. God bless
you, my dear fellow, and may we long work side by side. This little
cheque which I want you to accept as my Christmas-box is a beastly
thing to offer you—but, to tell the truth, I did not know what to buy
and have left it to you; you will get something you really need, and
which will remind you of your old pal.
"All Christmas blessings be yours and Vere'sJ"
Few men have been happier in their family relationships
than Barnardo; yet few have been so robbed of time for
their enjoyment. The demands of his Homes continually
overshadowed those of his home: for fathering "the Largest
Family in the World" deprived him of much time which
naturally would have been expended upon his own children.
Rarely on weekdays did he eat any meal save breakfast at
home; and frequently on Sundays was he off speaking
"on the Children's behalf* Nevertheless, breakfast-hour
was a time of true fellowship, for always it included Family
Worship: the Doctor presiding as "High Priest".
Holidays, too, were both a happy anticipation and a
sacred memory; for then, Barnardo's family claiming him
for their very own, all romped and played together—truants
from the school of life. But if Barnardo was a "big brother'*
among his own children, he none the less was able to counsel
them as only the wisest of fathers could. How many fathers
have ever written a more understanding letter to a growing
son than the following to Barnardo's youngest son, Cyril,1
then at school?
* Cyril is now a barrister in Winnipeg, Canada.